Key Specs of Kawasaki Vulcan S

Kawasaki Vulcan S Highlights

28 December 2018: The 650cc cruiser from Kawasaki gets an interest-free EMI option like a few other popular Kawasakis. While the zero per cent rate is offered only for 1-year loan tenures, longer tenures get lower than normal rates. Buyers who don’t want to take the finance route can instead opt for free riding and bike accessories worth Rs 27,500, which is equivalent to the interest savings. Both offers are valid only till 30 January 2019.

The Kawasaki Vulcan S has finally made it to India. Its extravagant showcase is slated to happen at the upcoming Delhi Auto Expo 2018 in February. The cruiser looks accommodating with a low slung profile, striking alloy wheels and at par suspension layout. The most notable of the features it sports is the ‘Ergo-Fit’ that enables the rider to adjust the handle, foot pegs and seat for an optimal riding position. Its non-traditional looks, parallel-twin engine and suspension assembly are some of the components that make it a standout performer.

The bike’s modern looks are depicted by features like inverted triangle headlamp, tapered handlebar, stylish and distinctive alloy wheels and an offset rear mono-shock absorber. The cruiser sits on the perimeter frame, which is more than capable of offering appreciable comfort to the rider and the pillion. The pillion seat is, however, removable like the Harleys.

The Kawasaki Vulcan S is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine that produces 61PS of power and 63Nm of torque. Mated to a 6-speed transmission system, it yields a fuel efficiency of approximately 22.7Kmpl It is priced at Rs 5.48 lakh for the black variant and Rs 5.58 lakh for the orange variant (both prices, ex-showroom India). While the Harley Davidson Street 750 is its main competitor, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 does offer a more affordable alternative.

Kawasaki Vulcan S Expert Review

Overview

After making a mark in the Indian two-wheeler market, Kawasaki makes entry to the middleweight cruiser segment with its Vulcan S. Built on a perimeter frame it gets a retuned version of the engine that also powers the famous Kawasaki Ninja 650. The bike has a modern feel, sports a low slung profile, laid-back riding position, removable pillion seat, inverted triangle headlamp and unique alloy wheels. The instrument cluster comprises an analogue tachometer and a digital display same as on the previous-gen Ninja 650. The highlight of the bike is ‘Ergo-Fit’ which is anticipated to play well on the Indian roads. There is a three-level adjustment for seat, handlebar and foot pegs, which makes Vulcan S a desirable and a preferred option for the riders of different heights, ages and gender. The Vulcan S is designed ergonomically which can be seen in its fit and finish. You’d not see a flaw in the finished product as far as panels, seat comfort and other styling elements are concerned and that’s what makes it one of the best cruisers to buy on the Indian turf.

Mechanically, minor tunings have been done to the engine for cruiser-like power delivery. The braking set up consists of disc brakes at both, front as well as rear, which provide great confidence to the rider while gliding it down the straights and city streets. The cruiser features ABS (Anti-lock braking system) as standard that adds up to its safety front. The bike gets telescopic front forks and an offset rear adjustable mono-shock absorber. With a single black colour choice, the bike can be purchased by shelling out Rs 5.44 Lakh (Ex-showroom, Delhi) from your kitty.

Design and Features

Kawasaki Vulcan S comes as a modern cruiser with trend-setting design and features. It is an urban motorcycle with adjustable conveniences to suit riders of varied heights and built. Cruisers are meant to be comfortable offering optimum riding height and position, foot pegs at adequate height and placement as well. Which we suppose Kawasaki has done brilliantly. The three-level adjustment for seat, handlebar and footpegs under the Ergo fitment makes it the leader of the pack. Adding to its eye-catchy design there are features like inverted triangle headlamp, tapered handlebar, uniquely-designed alloy wheels, tight-fit rear fender, under-engine muffler and a wide comfy seat. The blacked out components and short exhaust makes its long and low stance even more admirable. Everything combined together gives the bike a very upmarket feel making it the bike to own.

The adjustable clutch and brake levers add up to the convenience front allowing the rider to experience a ride of the lifetime whenever he twists the throttle on this Kawasaki cruiser. The finish levels are satisfactory while the comfort remains intact throughout the ride. One disappointing thing is that there are no colour choices for the buyers to explore. Nonetheless, the bike looks outstanding from the word go.

Dimensionally, it measures 2310mm long, 855mm wide and 1090mm high. The ground clearance of the cruiser sits at 130mm and the wheelbase at 1575mm.

Braking and Handling

Built on the perimeter high-tensile steel frame, the Kawasaki Vulcan S rides on telescopic front forks and offset adjustable mono-shock absorbers at the rear. Avoiding bumps and getting through terrain undulations isn’t be an issue for this cruiser, thanks to its suspension assembly that works incredibly well to offer a smooth and a comfortable ride experience. On the braking front, the Vulcan S gets a dual-piston 300mm disc at the front while the rear end features a single-piston 250mm disc. The first alloy wheel measures 18 inches while the rear wheel is 17 inches in diameter wrapping around 120/70 radial tubeless tyre and 160/60 tubeless tyre at the front and rear respectively. You won’t find it difficult to manoeuvre in city riding conditions and the high-speed roads. The ride quality is absolutely sublime. Also, it’s stable on varied terrains despite its light weight.

Safety and Features

Kawasaki Vulcan S comes with ABS as standard, which takes it on the top of the list of cruisers in India. The wheels don’t suffer locking even when the brakes are applied hard in adverse situations. Plus, the discs at both ends provide optimum braking force and stopping power for instant stopping without slip or slide.